Layout History
This layout is my first in N-Scale with my previous layout in HO-Scale. The layout began as a freelance track plan during December of 2001. Having moved into a new house in October, I was looking to "use" that new basement!
The trackplan was designed using the "Right Track" software from Atlas. The software is available for free from their website. Although I was planning on using flex-track for my railroad, I used the Code 55 track library when designing the track plan as the curved sections in this line of track are available in a wide selection of radii. For actual construction I used Atlas Code-80 track as my favorite part of the hobby is operations, not prototype matching. I felt the Code-80 track gave me the best opportunity for error free operation.
The benchwork on the railroad is open-grid using extruded foam as the base. Cork is used as the roadbed. Maximum grade is 2% (the prototype's maximum is 1.94%) and I used the Woodland Scenics foam riser system. The risers are 2-1/2" in width, wide enough for double track in N-Scale.
Motive power is provided by mostly Atlas engines however there currently is a Kato C44-9W on the roster. Rolling stock varies although Micro-Trains and Atlas are prominent. All engines and rolling stock have been upgraded to Micro-Trains trucks and couplers.
The layout, with dimensions of ~3'x25', is wired for DCC. The DCC system is Digitrax's Empire Builder II. I am hoping that once a bit more construction is completed and my inventory of N-Scale rolling stock increases, that this railroad will provide plenty of operational enjoyment for 2 and hopefully 3 operators. As this is my first attempt at a layout with which I hope to host "operating sessions," I don't really know if there will be enough for everyone to do or not. We'll see. Perhaps once I get further along I'll be able to develop the operational characteristics of the layout and add an Operations section to this webpage.
Construction Status-
For construction status, visit the "News" section.
